Ousmane Dabo French footballer, defensive midfielder Date of Birth: 08.02.1977 Country: France

1. Early Life and Career
2. Controversial Transfer to Inter Milan
3. Loan Spells and Return to France
4. International Debut and Lazio Success
5. Move to Manchester City and Incident with Joey Barton
6. Return to Lazio and Retirement

Early Life and Career

Ousmane Dabo, a French footballer of Senegalese descent, was born to former professional footballer Moussa Dabo. Growing up in Laval, he honed his skills at the local club, before joining Rennes in 1995.

Controversial Transfer to Inter Milan

In 1998, Dabo and teammate Mikael Silvestre sparked controversy by refusing to sign professional contracts with Rennes and instead joining Italian giants Inter Milan. This move, facilitated by the Bosman ruling, led to a €4.27 million transfer fee for Inter to compensate Rennes for Dabo's training.

Loan Spells and Return to France

Dabo's stint at Inter was brief, with limited playing time. He was loaned to Vicenza in January 1999, then moved to Parma under Arrigo Sacchi. In 2000, he joined Monaco as part of the deal for the acquisition of Sabri Lamouchi. After a loan spell at Vicenza, Dabo found his footing at Atalanta.

International Debut and Lazio Success

Dabo's impressive performances for Atalanta earned him a surprise call-up to the French national team for the Confederations Cup. He joined Lazio in July 2003, becoming a key player in their systematic playing style.

Move to Manchester City and Incident with Joey Barton

In 2006, Dabo signed a three-year deal with Manchester City. However, his time there was marred by injuries and a notorious incident with teammate Joey Barton. Barton's attack on Dabo resulted in his arrest and conviction.

Return to Lazio and Retirement

Dabo returned to Lazio in 2008, where he played regularly and won the 2008–09 Coppa Italia. After a brief stint in the United States with the New England Revolution, Dabo retired from professional football in 2011.